Trump to get Israel’s top honour for ending Gaza war; joining Obama on elite list

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog on Monday (October 13, 2025) announced that he will present the country’s highest civilian honour — the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour — to US President Donald Trump for his efforts in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and helping to end the war.

“Through his tireless efforts, President Trump has not only helped bring our loved ones home but has also laid the foundations for a new era in the Middle East built on security, cooperation, and genuine hope for a peaceful future,” Herzog said in a statement issued by his office.

The award, to be presented in the coming months, will be officially conveyed to Trump during his visit to Israel on Monday.

Trump is in the region to oversee the first phase of his 20-point peace plan aimed at ending more than two years of war between Israel and Hamas — a conflict that began with Hamas’s unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

As part of the plan, Israel and Hamas are set to carry out a large-scale hostage-prisoner exchange on Monday. During his brief visit, Trump is also expected to meet families of hostages and address the Israeli parliament.

The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honour recognises individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the State of Israel or humanity. The last US president to receive the distinction was Barack Obama, who was honoured in 2013.